US20020091587A1 - Electronic communication display system - Google Patents

Electronic communication display system Download PDF

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Publication number
US20020091587A1
US20020091587A1 US09/758,833 US75883301A US2002091587A1 US 20020091587 A1 US20020091587 A1 US 20020091587A1 US 75883301 A US75883301 A US 75883301A US 2002091587 A1 US2002091587 A1 US 2002091587A1
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United States
Prior art keywords
electronic
poster
posters
kit
media
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US09/758,833
Inventor
Frank Kenna
Edward Lafreniere
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Marlin Co
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Marlin Co
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Priority to US09/758,833 priority Critical patent/US20020091587A1/en
Assigned to MARLIN COMPANY, THE reassignment MARLIN COMPANY, THE ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KENNA, III, FRANK, LAFRENIERE, EDWARD
Publication of US20020091587A1 publication Critical patent/US20020091587A1/en
Priority to US11/050,093 priority patent/US7765273B2/en
Priority to US11/541,160 priority patent/US7743112B2/en
Priority to US12/723,744 priority patent/US8826168B2/en
Priority to US13/238,950 priority patent/US8516527B2/en
Priority to US14/273,860 priority patent/US9665839B2/en
Priority to US14/273,875 priority patent/US9094403B2/en
Priority to US14/284,748 priority patent/US9088576B2/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06QINFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00Commerce
    • G06Q30/02Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
    • G06Q30/0241Advertisements
    • G06Q30/0272Period of advertisement exposure
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06QINFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00Commerce
    • G06Q30/02Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06QINFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00Commerce
    • G06Q30/06Buying, selling or leasing transactions
    • G06Q30/0601Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06QINFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00Commerce
    • G06Q30/06Buying, selling or leasing transactions
    • G06Q30/0601Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
    • G06Q30/0621Item configuration or customization
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06QINFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00Commerce
    • G06Q30/06Buying, selling or leasing transactions
    • G06Q30/0601Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
    • G06Q30/0641Shopping interfaces

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to employee communication programs, and, more particularly, to an electronic communication display system for publishing employee communications.
  • the posters and messages may be developed by graphic designers by hand or on a computer aided design system. Typically, they are printed as a large communication display and then sent to a client where the communication display may be mounted onto a bulletin board.
  • the bulletin board may be relatively sophisticated and creatively organized for efficiency and visual attention such as a three-panel bulletin board on the order of 26 inches (66 centimeters) by 63 inches (160 centimeters).
  • the posters are typically regularly replaced by manual means depending on corporate goals, news of interest and employee activities.
  • clients may select new posters and messages and/or the new posters and messages are automatically selected, printed and shipped periodically to each client. Because of the large number and variety of clients and the specific requirements for certain users, there are significant inefficiencies associated with selecting, printing and shipping the employee communications. Also, achievement of a high degree of customization and selectivity is economically problematic.
  • the invention in a preferred form is an electronic communication display system which is at least partially disposed on a computer readable medium and is configured for transmitting data corresponding to media to a remote client location where the media is displayed.
  • the electronic communication display system comprises an electronic poster display board for displaying media, and a client computer server which receives data corresponding to the media for the electronic poster display board.
  • a web server capable of communicating with the client server for transmission of data thereto is also provided.
  • the web server along with an application server communicating with the web server formulates the data for the ultimate transmission to the client server.
  • the electronic communication display system comprises two computers.
  • the main server stores, sorts and keeps track of each client's order. It also receives the news, weather and sports information and reformats it for client use.
  • Each remote location of the system has a “client” computer which is hooked up to the Internet and to a flat panel display device. This computer checks, via Internet, with the main server on a regular basis and retrieves the correct assortment of materials in electronic form. It then displays them on the flat panel display.
  • the display may also include regularly updated news, weather and sports information.
  • the client server has a web browser configured in kiosk mode for display of the media.
  • the web browser may contain a plurality of channels wherein each of the channels contains an electronic poster or an electronic message.
  • Another preferred form of the invention involves a method of providing a customized poster service to a plurality of remote locations and comprises the steps of: generating a poster kit containing at least one electronic poster and/or electronic message for each client or subscriber selecting posters and/or messages by the client from the remote location; providing an electronic poster display board at each location; and communicating each selected poster and/or message over the Internet to each electronic poster display board for display of the least one electronic poster and/or electronic message.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic communication display system capable of electronically transferring business communications from a primary location to a plurality of remote locations.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic communication display system which enhances customization and increases the variety of materials available for selection.
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide an electric communication display system which allows for substantially instantaneous transmission of selected materials to a remote location.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a representative embodiment of an electronic communication display system in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a process flow diagram for an administrative portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 is a process flow diagram for a subscriber portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic annotated diagram of a representative electronic poster display board for use with the embodiment of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 5 is a representative screen which a subscriber may use in connection with the electronic communication system of FIG. 1.
  • An electronic communication display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated generally at 10 .
  • the electronic communication display system 10 provides for the transmission of client communications for display as media such as posters including designs and/or slogans and messages from a primary location for display at one or more remote client locations.
  • client communications for display as media such as posters including designs and/or slogans and messages from a primary location for display at one or more remote client locations.
  • client communications may involve safety, quality, teamwork, morale, self motivation, client news releases, employee activities and others.
  • media as used herein is intended to include all forms of visual communication including graphics, written and printed text along with photographs, visual works and artistic material developed for display alone or therewith.
  • the electronic communication display system 10 comprises a primary or administrative server system 12 located at a primary location and a multiplicity of client or subscriber communication and display systems 14 , 114 , 214 located at each remote client location.
  • the client communication and display system 14 communicates with the main or administrative server system 12 via the Internet 16 .
  • the administrative server system 12 is comprises a computer 13 which is configured to function as a first web server 18 , a second web server 20 , a data base server 22 , and an application server 26 . While the administrative server system 12 is described in terms of several services and server functions, a single computer 13 may provide all functions and incorporate all described services.
  • the computer 13 may be any commercially available server such as that manufactured and marketed by the Compaq Corporation and may be connected to the Internet 16 via line 28 in a well known manner.
  • the first web server 18 is configured to be accessible by one or more client work stations as more fully described hereafter for modifying the content of the employee communication.
  • the second web server 20 may be similar to web server 18 although modified to communicate via communication line 29 with one or more client servers discussed in more detail below. It will be understood that while two web servers 18 and 20 are provided, one web server performing both functions may be employed instead.
  • the data base server 22 stores client information such as client identification, client routing location and client media data such as poster kits developed by a work station 24 and as modified by the application server 26 as discussed below. Numerous work stations 24 may be employed
  • Each work station 24 is configured so that a graphic designer may develop electronic posters and collect the posters together into kits which may contain, for example, collections of electronic posters and messages for a particular client.
  • the media is created at the workstation 24 , using software such as Adobe PhotoshopTM or Adobe IllustratorTM.
  • the posters are then sent to work station 18 where they are sorted by edition and client.
  • the work station 24 communicates with the data base server 22 represented by communication line 30 in order to transmit various electronic posters, etc., which are developed at the work station 24 , to the data base server.
  • the electronic posters are converted into an appropriate format for transmission over the Internet 16 , such as file transfer protocol (FTP), and then stored before transfer to a client communication and display system 14 , as discussed in more detail below.
  • FTP file transfer protocol
  • FTP is employed to obtain news, weather and sports data. Otherwise, in house file transmission is over local networks.
  • the coordination and communication with computer 13 is functionally identical in FIG. 1.
  • the application server 26 communicates with both the first and second web servers 18 , 20 represented by communication lines 32 and 34 and with the data base server 22 via communication line 36 .
  • the application server 26 provides coordination between the web servers 18 and 20 and access to the electronic poster kits contained in data base server 22 .
  • the application server 18 includes application software which tracks and distributes content according to client order entry procedures and as modified by subscribers during the subscription period.
  • the client communication and display system 14 comprises a computer 15 which includes a client workstation 38 , a client server 42 , and an electronic poster display board 40 .
  • the client workstation 38 communicates with the web server 18 via communication lines 28 and 44 and the Internet 16 .
  • the client workstation 38 preferably comprises a web browser sold under the trademark EXPLORER by the Microsoft Corporation of Redman, Wash.
  • other web browsers such as that sold under the trademark NETSCAPE by the Netscape Communications Corporation of Mountain View, Calif. may be employed.
  • the client work station 38 interactively communicates with a web server 18 in order to transmit client or subscriber input, for example to, modify an electronic poster kit and receive an updated description of the electronic poster kit. Such interactive communication can be as frequent as described by the client.
  • the electronic poster display board 40 may be any suitably large display board but is preferably a flat panel gas plasma display, such as that manufactured and sold by the Sony corporation of Japan.
  • the client server 38 receives electronic poster kits (or media) in the form of data in a particular format, as discussed above, for display on the electronic poster display board 40 .
  • the client server 38 is illustrated as being connected to the electronic poster display board 40 by a communication line 46 .
  • the computer 15 may be located on a housing supporting the electronic poster display board 40 but is preferably separated some distance therefrom.
  • the client server 38 communicates with the web server 18 via communication lines 29 and 44 and the Internet 16 .
  • the client server 38 preferably comprises a web browser, such as discussed above, which is configured, in a kiosk mode whereby the browser receives the data from the web server 18 and generates a continuous display.
  • a number of channels of the web browser may be used in order to simultaneously display various elements of the poster kit for varying amounts of time. An example of the foregoing is discussed below.
  • the client server 38 communicates electronic poster kits to the electronic poster display board 40 for display thereof.
  • the electronic poster display board may comprise a plurality of sections for displaying different materials.
  • four separate sections 50 , 52 , 54 and 56 may be provided—each of which may be functioning simultaneously and at different update times and periods.
  • Each section may sequentially display varying messages and/or posters, slogans, etc.
  • an electronic poster 58 may be displayed fifteen (15) minutes and then switch to a custom executive poster 62 .
  • Section 52 may concurrently include an employee message 64 , then switch to a Good Will MotivatorTM media 66 thereafter switch to a management suggested letter 60 and. The relative timing may also be selected.
  • messages 64 and 66 may alternate every fifteen (15) minutes and may start seven and one half (7.5) minutes after the poster 58 is initially displayed in section 50 .
  • Section 54 may display any news and announcements such as news headlines, sports scores and local 3 or 5 day weather forecasts.
  • the display may include media such as a client's name or trademark, etc. as illustrated at 70 , which may be permanently affixed thereto.
  • each of the communications lines 28 , 29 , 44 and 48 may comprise, for example, telephone, satellite or wireless hook up.
  • a graphic artist creates a work which is compiled into a poster kit including a collection of electronic posters in a data format, as discussed above, that is suitable for transmission over the Internet as shown in box 72 .
  • the electronic posters are cataloged electronically via the workstation 24 and stored in the data base server 18 . See box 74 .
  • the application server 18 and work station 24 function to group electronic posters.
  • the posters may also be compiled into posters kits arranged by, for example, a particular client or client group such as retail clients or manufacturing clients. See box 76 .
  • the subscribers of systems 14 and 114 may have access only to one set of poster kits while the subscriber of systems 214 has access only to a different set of posters.
  • the application server is also configured to indicate the last time and date that revisions or updates have been made to the poster kits.
  • kits Each subscriber may modify these kits as will be more fully described hereafter.
  • the client may select the specific electronic posters for display on the electronic communication display 40 .
  • the client server 38 communicates the electronic posters to the electronic communication display 40 as described above for display thereof. See box 80 .
  • the subscriber can query through the web browser to determine the latest times and dates of poster kit changes.
  • the client may also modify the client's poster kit as follows. Using a client workstation 38 , the client contacts the web server 18 (see box 82 and 84 ) and logs onto the web server 18 . After checking for proper password and client ID, (see 86 ), the client views the current kit contents at 88 . The client may then choose between different options. The client may search for posters by topic, for exmple, posters with themes such as safety, attitude, cooperation, etc. The client may remove any unwanted electronic posters or other content at 90 . The client may also search, using the application server 18 , to select a particular poster or posters and add each selected poster to the poster kit at 92 , 94 and 96 . The client may have access to various screens such as screen 200 (FIG.
  • the client may design its own electronic poster content within the application or simply provide electronic material for display all of which may be added to the poster kit at 98 and 100 .
  • the electronic poster kit will be made available by the application server 18 . Accordingly, when the client server 14 polls the web server 18 , new media data is downloaded for display on the electronic communication display 40 which is represented at box 102 .

Abstract

An electronic communication display system is at least partially disposed on a computer readable medium and is configured for transmitting data corresponding to media to a remote client location where the media is displayed. The electronic communication display system comprises an electronic poster display board for displaying media and a client server that is configured to transmit the data to the electronic poster display board. A main web server, which may be configured to communicate with the client server for transmission of the data thereto, compiles sets of posters in electronic form which are selected through the client server. A method of communication is also presented.

Description

    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates generally to employee communication programs, and, more particularly, to an electronic communication display system for publishing employee communications. [0001]
  • Conventional business communication programs have typically included providing a bulletin board upon which printed material, e.g., posters including photographs, artwork, designs and/or slogans, and messages which pertain to a client's business are displayed. Topics which may be the subject of business communications include employee communications involving safety, quality, teamwork, morale and self-motivation. For example, since safety is an important consideration in most working environments, a poster with a slogan such as using prudence in a potentially dangerous situation may be displayed for impressing upon employees an employer's requirement for observing on-the-job safety. Other examples of representative employee communications include messages such as news releases made by a client and messages for boosting employee morale such as those involving employee activities. [0002]
  • In conventional systems to which the invention relates, the posters and messages may be developed by graphic designers by hand or on a computer aided design system. Typically, they are printed as a large communication display and then sent to a client where the communication display may be mounted onto a bulletin board. The bulletin board may be relatively sophisticated and creatively organized for efficiency and visual attention such as a three-panel bulletin board on the order of 26 inches (66 centimeters) by 63 inches (160 centimeters). For conventional systems to which the invention relates, the posters are typically regularly replaced by manual means depending on corporate goals, news of interest and employee activities. [0003]
  • At regular time intervals, such as once a month, clients may select new posters and messages and/or the new posters and messages are automatically selected, printed and shipped periodically to each client. Because of the large number and variety of clients and the specific requirements for certain users, there are significant inefficiencies associated with selecting, printing and shipping the employee communications. Also, achievement of a high degree of customization and selectivity is economically problematic. [0004]
  • Accordingly, it is desired to provide an efficient system which overcomes many of the deficiencies of prior art systems and services. [0005]
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • Briefly stated, the invention in a preferred form is an electronic communication display system which is at least partially disposed on a computer readable medium and is configured for transmitting data corresponding to media to a remote client location where the media is displayed. The electronic communication display system comprises an electronic poster display board for displaying media, and a client computer server which receives data corresponding to the media for the electronic poster display board. A web server capable of communicating with the client server for transmission of data thereto is also provided. The web server along with an application server communicating with the web server formulates the data for the ultimate transmission to the client server. [0006]
  • At its most fundamental configuration, the electronic communication display system comprises two computers. The main server stores, sorts and keeps track of each client's order. It also receives the news, weather and sports information and reformats it for client use. Each remote location of the system has a “client” computer which is hooked up to the Internet and to a flat panel display device. This computer checks, via Internet, with the main server on a regular basis and retrieves the correct assortment of materials in electronic form. It then displays them on the flat panel display. The display may also include regularly updated news, weather and sports information. [0007]
  • In one particular embodiment of the invention, the client server has a web browser configured in kiosk mode for display of the media. The web browser may contain a plurality of channels wherein each of the channels contains an electronic poster or an electronic message. [0008]
  • Another preferred form of the invention involves a method of providing a customized poster service to a plurality of remote locations and comprises the steps of: generating a poster kit containing at least one electronic poster and/or electronic message for each client or subscriber selecting posters and/or messages by the client from the remote location; providing an electronic poster display board at each location; and communicating each selected poster and/or message over the Internet to each electronic poster display board for display of the least one electronic poster and/or electronic message. [0009]
  • An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic communication display system capable of electronically transferring business communications from a primary location to a plurality of remote locations. [0010]
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic communication display system which enhances customization and increases the variety of materials available for selection. [0011]
  • A further object of the present invention is to provide an electric communication display system which allows for substantially instantaneous transmission of selected materials to a remote location.[0012]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
  • Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specification and drawings wherein: [0013]
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a representative embodiment of an electronic communication display system in accordance with the present invention; [0014]
  • FIG. 2 is a process flow diagram for an administrative portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1; and [0015]
  • FIG. 3 is a process flow diagram for a subscriber portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1; [0016]
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic annotated diagram of a representative electronic poster display board for use with the embodiment of FIG. 1; and [0017]
  • FIG. 5 is a representative screen which a subscriber may use in connection with the electronic communication system of FIG. 1.[0018]
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
  • An electronic communication display system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated generally at [0019] 10. The electronic communication display system 10 provides for the transmission of client communications for display as media such as posters including designs and/or slogans and messages from a primary location for display at one or more remote client locations. As discussed above, the subject matter of the business communications may involve safety, quality, teamwork, morale, self motivation, client news releases, employee activities and others.
  • The term “media” as used herein is intended to include all forms of visual communication including graphics, written and printed text along with photographs, visual works and artistic material developed for display alone or therewith. [0020]
  • The electronic [0021] communication display system 10 comprises a primary or administrative server system 12 located at a primary location and a multiplicity of client or subscriber communication and display systems 14, 114, 214 located at each remote client location. The client communication and display system 14 communicates with the main or administrative server system 12 via the Internet 16.
  • The [0022] administrative server system 12 is comprises a computer 13 which is configured to function as a first web server 18, a second web server 20, a data base server 22, and an application server 26. While the administrative server system 12 is described in terms of several services and server functions, a single computer 13 may provide all functions and incorporate all described services. The computer 13 may be any commercially available server such as that manufactured and marketed by the Compaq Corporation and may be connected to the Internet 16 via line 28 in a well known manner. The first web server 18 is configured to be accessible by one or more client work stations as more fully described hereafter for modifying the content of the employee communication.
  • The [0023] second web server 20 may be similar to web server 18 although modified to communicate via communication line 29 with one or more client servers discussed in more detail below. It will be understood that while two web servers 18 and 20 are provided, one web server performing both functions may be employed instead.
  • The [0024] data base server 22 stores client information such as client identification, client routing location and client media data such as poster kits developed by a work station 24 and as modified by the application server 26 as discussed below. Numerous work stations 24 may be employed
  • Each [0025] work station 24 is configured so that a graphic designer may develop electronic posters and collect the posters together into kits which may contain, for example, collections of electronic posters and messages for a particular client. The media is created at the workstation 24, using software such as Adobe Photoshop™ or Adobe Illustrator™. The posters are then sent to work station 18 where they are sorted by edition and client. The work station 24 communicates with the data base server 22 represented by communication line 30 in order to transmit various electronic posters, etc., which are developed at the work station 24, to the data base server. The electronic posters are converted into an appropriate format for transmission over the Internet 16, such as file transfer protocol (FTP), and then stored before transfer to a client communication and display system 14, as discussed in more detail below. FTP is employed to obtain news, weather and sports data. Otherwise, in house file transmission is over local networks.
  • The coordination and communication with [0026] computer 13 is functionally identical in FIG. 1. The application server 26 communicates with both the first and second web servers 18, 20 represented by communication lines 32 and 34 and with the data base server 22 via communication line 36. The application server 26 provides coordination between the web servers 18 and 20 and access to the electronic poster kits contained in data base server 22. The application server 18 includes application software which tracks and distributes content according to client order entry procedures and as modified by subscribers during the subscription period.
  • The client communication and [0027] display system 14 comprises a computer 15 which includes a client workstation 38, a client server 42, and an electronic poster display board 40. The client workstation 38 communicates with the web server 18 via communication lines 28 and 44 and the Internet 16. The client workstation 38 preferably comprises a web browser sold under the trademark EXPLORER by the Microsoft Corporation of Redman, Wash. Optionally, other web browsers, such as that sold under the trademark NETSCAPE by the Netscape Communications Corporation of Mountain View, Calif. may be employed. The client work station 38 interactively communicates with a web server 18 in order to transmit client or subscriber input, for example to, modify an electronic poster kit and receive an updated description of the electronic poster kit. Such interactive communication can be as frequent as described by the client.
  • The electronic [0028] poster display board 40 may be any suitably large display board but is preferably a flat panel gas plasma display, such as that manufactured and sold by the Sony corporation of Japan.
  • The [0029] client server 38 receives electronic poster kits (or media) in the form of data in a particular format, as discussed above, for display on the electronic poster display board 40. The client server 38 is illustrated as being connected to the electronic poster display board 40 by a communication line 46. It will be appreciated that the computer 15 may be located on a housing supporting the electronic poster display board 40 but is preferably separated some distance therefrom. In any event, the client server 38 communicates with the web server 18 via communication lines 29 and 44 and the Internet 16. The client server 38 preferably comprises a web browser, such as discussed above, which is configured, in a kiosk mode whereby the browser receives the data from the web server 18 and generates a continuous display. In particular, it will be understood that a number of channels of the web browser may be used in order to simultaneously display various elements of the poster kit for varying amounts of time. An example of the foregoing is discussed below.
  • Referring now also to FIG. 4, the [0030] client server 38 communicates electronic poster kits to the electronic poster display board 40 for display thereof. Preferably, the electronic poster display board may comprise a plurality of sections for displaying different materials. For example, four separate sections 50, 52, 54 and 56 may be provided—each of which may be functioning simultaneously and at different update times and periods. Each section may sequentially display varying messages and/or posters, slogans, etc. For example, in section 50 an electronic poster 58 may be displayed fifteen (15) minutes and then switch to a custom executive poster 62. Section 52 may concurrently include an employee message 64, then switch to a Good Will Motivator™ media 66 thereafter switch to a management suggested letter 60 and. The relative timing may also be selected. For example, messages 64 and 66 may alternate every fifteen (15) minutes and may start seven and one half (7.5) minutes after the poster 58 is initially displayed in section 50. Section 54 may display any news and announcements such as news headlines, sports scores and local 3 or 5 day weather forecasts. The display may include media such as a client's name or trademark, etc. as illustrated at 70, which may be permanently affixed thereto. It will be appreciated that each of the communications lines 28, 29, 44 and 48 may comprise, for example, telephone, satellite or wireless hook up.
  • OPERATION
  • With reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and [0031] 3, using work station 24 a graphic artist creates a work which is compiled into a poster kit including a collection of electronic posters in a data format, as discussed above, that is suitable for transmission over the Internet as shown in box 72. The electronic posters are cataloged electronically via the workstation 24 and stored in the data base server 18. See box 74.
  • The [0032] application server 18 and work station 24 function to group electronic posters. The posters may also be compiled into posters kits arranged by, for example, a particular client or client group such as retail clients or manufacturing clients. See box 76. For example, the subscribers of systems 14 and 114 may have access only to one set of poster kits while the subscriber of systems 214 has access only to a different set of posters. The application server is also configured to indicate the last time and date that revisions or updates have been made to the poster kits.
  • Each subscriber may modify these kits as will be more fully described hereafter. Once the kits are established, the client may select the specific electronic posters for display on the [0033] electronic communication display 40. Thereafter, the client server 38 communicates the electronic posters to the electronic communication display 40 as described above for display thereof. See box 80. The subscriber can query through the web browser to determine the latest times and dates of poster kit changes.
  • The client may also modify the client's poster kit as follows. Using a [0034] client workstation 38, the client contacts the web server 18 (see box 82 and 84) and logs onto the web server 18. After checking for proper password and client ID, (see 86), the client views the current kit contents at 88. The client may then choose between different options. The client may search for posters by topic, for exmple, posters with themes such as safety, attitude, cooperation, etc. The client may remove any unwanted electronic posters or other content at 90. The client may also search, using the application server 18, to select a particular poster or posters and add each selected poster to the poster kit at 92, 94 and 96. The client may have access to various screens such as screen 200 (FIG. 5) to facilitate the search and selection. Optionally, the client may design its own electronic poster content within the application or simply provide electronic material for display all of which may be added to the poster kit at 98 and 100. Once a client has completed the modification, the electronic poster kit will be made available by the application server 18. Accordingly, when the client server 14 polls the web server 18, new media data is downloaded for display on the electronic communication display 40 which is represented at box 102.
  • While the present invention has been described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Rather it is intended to cover all of the various modifications and equivalent arrangements including within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. [0035]

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:
1. A method of distributing electronic media for display at a multiplicity of remote locations comprising:
(a) creating a plurality of electronic poster kits each containing a plurality of posters;
(b) posting said electronic poster kits on a web site;
(c) accessing said web site over the Internet to view a poster kit;
(d) selecting from a remote location a set of posters from said web site;
(e) customizing said selected set of posters from said remote location by transmitting data over the Internet;
(f) transmitting said customized selected set of posters over the Internet to said remote location; and
(g) displaying said customized selected set of posters on a screen.
2. The media distribution method of claim 1 further comprising identifying a subscriber for said remote location and limiting access to a specific poster kit as a function of the identified subscriber.
3. The media distribution method of claim 1 further comprising repeating each said step.
4. The media distribution method of claim 3 wherein if step (d) is not repeated within a pre-established time interval, further comprising transmitting a default poster kit to a remote location and displaying said default poster kit.
5. The media distribution method of claim 1 wherein if step (e) is not repeated within a pre-established time interval relative to step (d), default customized data is transmitted to generate said customized selected set of posters.
6. The media distribution method of claim 1 further comprising periodically changing the posters displayed on said screen.
7. The media distribution method of claim 6 further comprising continuously displaying contemporaneous information on said screen.
8. An electronic communication display system that is at least partially disposed on a computer readable medium and is configured for transmitting data corresponding to media to a remote subscriber location where the media is displayed, comprising:
an electronic poster display board for displaying media;
a main web server configured with media defining a plurality of sets of posters in electronic form and for transmitting selected portions of the media; and
a subscriber server in commemoration with said main web server and said display board and configured to select portions of said media;
wherein selected media is transmitted to said subscriber server for display in poster form on said electronic poster display board.
9. The electronic communication display system of claim 8 wherein:
the subscriber server includes a web browser configured in kiosk mode for display of the media.
10. The electronic communication display system of claim 9 wherein:
the web browser contains a plurality of channels; and
the media includes to a poster kit composed of a predefined collection of electronic posters and/or electronic messages;
wherein each of the channels contains an electronic poster or an electronic message.
11. The electronic communication display system of claim 10 wherein:
the subscriber server is configured to display one of the electronic posters for predetermined period of time and then switch to another of the electronic posters.
12. The electronic communication display system of claim 11 wherein:
the web browser is further configured to query the main server to determine whether any changes in the media data has occurred.
13. The electronic communication display system of claim 12 wherein:
said main server comprises a data base containing poster kits associating various electronic posters and the subscriber server communicates with the data base subscriber input at the subscriber server formulates a poster kit for transmission to the subscriber server.
14. The electronic communication display system of claim 10 wherein the electronic communication display comprises at least one flat panel gas plasma display.
15. The electronic communication display system of claim 13 further comprising a work station at which electronic posters are created, the work station communicating with the main server to formulate the data base.
16. A method of providing a customized poster service to a plurality of remote locations comprising the steps of:
generating a poster kit containing at least one electronic poster and/or electronic message for each location;
providing an electronic poster display board at each location; and
communicating each poster kit over the Internet to each electronic poster display board for display of the least one electronic poster and/or electronic message.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein the step of generating a poster kit comprising the steps of:
providing a server at a primary location for displaying a collection of electronic posters over the Internet via an Internet browser; and
selecting among the collection of electronic posters in order to formulate a particular poster kit and/or modify an existing poster kit via the Internet browser;
correlating the particular poster kit to a particular location.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein the step of communicating the poster kit further comprises the steps of:
periodically polling the server from a remote location;
downloading updates at the remote location of a particular poster kit; and
displaying each of the electronic posters of the updated poster kit.
19. The method of claim 18 comprising the step of:
sequencing the display of each one of the electronic posters of the poster kit for display on the electronic poster display board in a predetermined manner.
20. The method of claim 16 further comprising the step of:
entering text at a remote location for use in conjunction with display of at least one electronic poster.
US09/758,833 2001-01-11 2001-01-11 Electronic communication display system Abandoned US20020091587A1 (en)

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US09/758,833 US20020091587A1 (en) 2001-01-11 2001-01-11 Electronic communication display system
US11/050,093 US7765273B2 (en) 2001-01-11 2005-02-03 Method and apparatus for distribution of electronic media
US11/541,160 US7743112B2 (en) 2001-01-11 2006-09-29 Secure electronic media distribution and presentation system
US12/723,744 US8826168B2 (en) 2001-01-11 2010-03-15 Secure electronic media distribution and presentation system
US13/238,950 US8516527B2 (en) 2001-01-11 2011-09-21 Electronic media communication system with a displayed code
US14/273,860 US9665839B2 (en) 2001-01-11 2014-05-09 Networked electronic media distribution system
US14/273,875 US9094403B2 (en) 2001-01-11 2014-05-09 Electronic media distribution system and mobile device
US14/284,748 US9088576B2 (en) 2001-01-11 2014-05-22 Electronic media creation and distribution

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